Ouya console release date set for June with $100 price tag

A selection of US retailers have started taking pre-orders for the crowd-source funded Ouya console ahead of a newly confirmed June Ouya release date.

Whilst an Ouya UK release date has yet to be announced, makers of the micro games console have confirmed that the Android-based device will hit American retailers in a number of months, with a US Ouya release date to see the likes of Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop and Target all stock the sub $100 gamer.

Having generated more than $8.5 million (£5.4m) in funding through a recent Kickstarter campaign, the Ouya console will find its way to investors and those who made pre-orders prior to it hitting the shelves of retail partners. As well as revealing a June arrival, a $99.99 (£63.38) Ouya price has been set for the console and a single controller.

“We had some good news today,” Ouya CEO Julie Uhrman said in a note to investors. “Because of the support for Ouya you showed, some of our favourite stores are going to carry Ouya when it officially launches to the public in June.”

She added: “Just so you know, you’re still getting yours as promised, before they’re ever in stores. Wanted to be sure you heard that from us.”

Landing alongside the Ouya release date and price confirmations, the micro gaming company has revealed that separate Ouya controllers will set wannabe owners back a princely $49.99 (£31.69) apiece, half of the console’s full price.

"It's a premium price for a controller, but the inclusion of the touchpad really makes it a premium in the marketplace,” Uhrman said speaking with the WSJ. "The number of orders have grown each month. We haven't disclosed any numbers. I think it's fair to say to get established players in the retail space excited about pre-selling Ouya speaks to the excitement in the marketplace. We've had 68,000 backers, we have more than that in pre-orders today."

Having recently undergone a redesign based on developer feedback, the Ouya controller is set to feature a touch sensitive section, similar to that rumoured to feature on the upcoming Sony PS4 specs.

Are you planning on snapping up an Ouya console when it makes its way to British shores or are you happy to keep your Android gaming firmly on your smartphones and tablets? Let us know via the TrustedReviews Twitter and Facebook feeds or through the comment boxes below.